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Alternative management: |
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Vanderklam Member Joined: 20 Apr 2008 No. of posts: 39  View other posts by Vanderklam |
Posted: 25 Apr 2009 Hi all, Im currently in deadlock with local habitat management authorities with regards to the management of some local heathland. Here I have used GIS to map hibernacula and surface den sites utilised by three adder sub-populations. Current methods of habitat management is predominantly controlled burning, with additional grazing where necessary. However, I wish to recommend alternative forms of habitat management that will: (a) maintain habitat structure in these key areas; (b) maintain habitat corridors to local summer quarters. Im sure we are all aware of the risks posed to herpetofauna through the use of controlled burning....so any ALTERNATIVE suggestions? Best VDK
Kevin Palmer Lecturer in Animal Management/Course Manager Reaseheath College |
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herpetologic2 Senior Member Joined: 15 Jun 2004 No. of posts: 1369  View other posts by herpetologic2 |
Posted: 26 Apr 2009 removal of habitat by hand or small machine Timing of burns no management fencing off sensitive areas placing of brash and other materials to provide shelter mowing lower grazing densities - its about maintaining habitat in favourable condition rather than protecting every animal best of luck Vice Chair of ARG UK - self employed consultant - visit ARG UK & Alresford Wildlife |
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Vicar Senior Member Joined: 02 Sep 2004 No. of posts: 1181 View other posts by Vicar |
Posted: 28 Apr 2009 Natural England are (shortly) about to issue a reptile management handbook, which would be an ideal reference for land managers. I think the best course of action in the short term would be to share your distribution results with the people who manage the site, so at least they are aware of sensitive areas....and you might just get them interested and 'on-side'! Steve Langham - Chairman 
Surrey Amphibian & Reptile Group (SARG). |
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Vanderklam Member Joined: 20 Apr 2008 No. of posts: 39 View other posts by Vanderklam |
Posted: 28 Apr 2009 Thanks for the info chaps! Vicar, I am already working in partnership with the local management authorities regarding site management. At present I posess the only data for adders on the AONB itself, which will be distributed to all the relevant parties. Unfortunately the land is privately owned and is merely managed by the AONB rangers, so any habitat management requires the permission of the land owners. It will be difficult to find the right balance here, as the sites themselves will be inaccessible to machinery, most sites are utilised for recreational activities (cycling / walking / the local hunt) and much of the land is grazed by the land owners. Hopefully the land owners will take note of my recommendations Kevin Palmer Lecturer in Animal Management/Course Manager Reaseheath College |
- Alternative management |
